Retractable canopy

ABSTRACT

A canopy that reciprocates in and out of a channel of a back assembly for a chair, the canopy comprises a pair of flexible members, a weatherproof panel and a pair of bias members. Each flexible member has a first rod end, a second rod end and a rod body disposed therebetween. The flexible members are configured to reciprocate between a retracted position that is within the channel of the back assembly and an expanded position that is out of the channel and over the chair. The weatherproof panel removeably attaches to the flexible members when the flexible members are positioned in the expanded position. Each bias member has an upper end and a lower end. The upper ends are connected near the second ends of the flexible members and the lower ends are connected to the chair wherein the bias members pull the second ends of the flexible members toward the chair to bend the flexible members in an arc shape over the chair so that the panel covers the chair.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §120 of U.S.application Ser. No. 11/266,910 filed Nov. 4, 2005 by the presentinventor.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARC

Not Applicable.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to a retractable canopy, and inparticular, a retractable canopy for a chair that reciprocates withinthe chair during non-use and expands over the chair during use.

Many parks, common areas and outdoor entertainment venues have groundseating areas that are exposed to the elements such as sunlight, rain,wind, snow and insects. Typically, these seating areas do not employ anycover to protect chairs from the elements. Although canopies may beattached to a chair, current canopies are either too bulky or too heavyto be considered practicable. Additionally, carrying a canopy andseparate chair becomes impractical for convenient enjoyment of outdoorseating areas. Attendees for outdoor events require canopies that areeasily and economically integrated with the chair.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Briefly stated, the present disclosure relates to a canopy thatreciprocates in and out of a channel of a back assembly for a chair. Thecanopy comprises a pair of flexible members, a weatherproof panel and apair of bias members. Each flexible member has a first end, a second endand a rod body disposed therebetween. The flexible members areconfigured to reciprocate between a retracted position that is withinthe channel of the back assembly and an expanded position that is out ofthe channel and over the chair. The weatherproof panel removeablyattaches to the flexible members when the flexible members arepositioned in the expanded position.

Each bias member has an upper end and a lower end. The upper ends areconnected near the second ends of the flexible members and the lowerends are connected to the chair wherein the bias members pull the secondends of the flexible members toward the chair to bend the flexiblemembers in an arc shape over the chair so that the panel covers thechair.

The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of thedisclosure as well as presently preferred embodiments thereof willbecome more apparent from the reading of the following description inconnection with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

In the accompanying drawings which form part of the specification:

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a foldable chair illustrating a backassembly, an arm assembly, a seat assembly, a leg assembly and a footassembly constructed in accordance with and embodying the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an adjustment pin and a portion of aseat constructed in accordance with and embodying the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the foldable chair of FIG. 1illustrating the foldable chair positioned in an expanded position on anangled surface such that the seat is positioned substantially horizontalwith respect to the angled surface;

FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of the foldable chair of FIG. 1illustrating the back assembly, the arm assembly, the seat assembly, theleg assembly and the foot assembly aligned and folded in a collapsedposition;

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate schematic views of the foldable chair of FIG. 1illustrating the chair positioned on a plurality of angled surfaceswherein the seat is positioned substantially horizontal with respect toeach angled surface;

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of the foldable chair of FIG. 1 illustratinga back covering, a seat, a leg covering and a foot covering constructedin accordance with and embodying the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of a canopy constructed in accordancewith and embodying the present disclosure illustrating flexible membersretractably positioned within the back assembly;

FIG. 8 is a side elevational view of the flexible members in an expandedposition and further illustrating a panel engaged with the flexiblemembers;

FIG. 9 is a partial break away view of back side members of the backassembly and a channel disposed through the back side members; theflexible members positioned within the channel; a stabilizing member andcross member of the canopy;

FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of another embodiment of a chair andthe canopy positioned within the chair as constructed in accordance withand embodying the present disclosure; and

FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of the chair of FIG. 10 with thecanopy in the extended position.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughoutthe several figures of the drawings.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The following detailed description illustrates the disclosure by way ofexample and not by way of limitation. The description clearly enablesone skilled in the art to make and use the disclosure, describes severalembodiments, adaptations, variations, alternatives, and uses of thedisclosure, including what is presently believed to be the best mode ofcarrying out the disclosure.

Referring to the drawings, a chair A (FIG. 1) folds by a plurality ofhinges 10 between an expanded position 12 and a collapsed position 14(FIG. 4) to seat a person substantially horizontal while the chair A ispositioned in the expanded position 12 on an angled surface 16 (FIG. 3).As will be discussed, hinges 10 relate to the seat hinges 54, leg hinges86 and foot hinges 126. For illustrative purposes, one hinge 10 is shownin FIG. 1. The hinges 10 comprise moveable joints that pivot or rotatearound a connecting member such as a pin. The chair A comprises a backassembly 18, a seat assembly 20, a leg assembly 22, a seat 24, an armassembly 26 (FIG. 3) and a foot assembly 28. The chair A furthercomprises at least one anchor 30 which is configured to penetrate theangled surface 16 in order to stabilize the chair A on the angledsurface 16. The back assembly 18, seat assembly 20, leg assembly 22,foot assembly 28 and the arm assembly 26 comprise a light weightmaterial including, but not limited to, a metal alloy or plastic.Suitable metal alloys include but are not limited to aluminum, aluminumalloy, steel and steel alloy. The back assembly 18, seat assembly 20,leg assembly 22, foot assembly 28 and arm assembly 26 may comprisechannel members, tubular members or straight members.

Referring to FIG. 1, the back assembly 18 has a back frame 32 and a backcovering 34 that partially covers the back frame 32. The back frame 32includes opposing back side members 36 wherein each back side member hasa first back end 38 and a second back end 40. Each first back end 38includes a curved surface to support the back covering 34 while eachsecond back end 40 contacts the angled surface 16 (FIG. 3). In oneembodiment, the back side members 36 are approximately 24″ in length andapproximately 2″ in height. The back frame 32 further comprises a backcross member 42 which connects the opposing back side members 36 nearthe respective first back ends 38.

The back covering 34 comprises a back fabric panel 44 (FIG. 6), whichhas a front face 46, a back face 48 and side faces 50. The back covering34 partially covers the back frame 32 wherein the back fabric panel 44comprises any suitable material such as nylon or canvas. The front andback faces 46, 48 further include a handle aperture 52 definedtherethrough. As shown in FIG. 1, the back fabric panel 44 covers theback cross member 42, the first back ends 38 and portions of the backside members 36. The back fabric panel 44 may include reinforcementstrips of material to provide a resistant back support for the user.

Seat hinges 54 of the plurality of hinges 10 secures the seat assembly20 to the back frame 32. In particular, the seat hinges 54 pivotallycouple the seat assembly 20 to the second back ends 40 of the back sidemembers 36. In one embodiment, each seat hinge 54 includes joints (notshown) that may be secured at a plurality of angular positions withrespect to the ground surface. The seat assembly 20 includes opposingseat side members 60. Each seat side member 60 has a first seat end 64and a second seat end 66, wherein each of the second seats ends 66contacts the angled surface 16. Furthermore, the seat assembly 20includes a crossbar B that connects the seat side members 60 at theopposing seat hinges 54. In one embodiment, the seat side members 60 areapproximately 20″ in length and approximately 2″ in height.

The seat adjustment assembly 58 includes a seat track 70 that isintegrally disposed within the back side members 36. The seat track 70of one of the back side members 36 contains a mirror configuration ofthe seat track 70 for the other respective back side member 36. Sincethe seat track 70 is integrally disposed within the back side members36, the seat track 70 does not extend beyond the back frame 32. The seattrack 70 has a plurality of seat adjustment positions 72.

Each seat adjustment position 72 includes a slot 74 having a channelmember 76 and a support member 78 that perpendicularly extends aboveeach channel member 76. Each channel member 76 is configured in arectangular shape. As shown, the plurality of seat adjustment positions72 is positioned on top of each other while being equally spaced fromeach other. Furthermore, angled portions 80 of the seat track 70 connectone respective channel member 76 with the next channel member 76.

The seat assembly 20 further includes a knee portion 82. The kneeportion 82 comprises angled side members 83 which are covered by a kneefabric panel 84 (FIGS. 1 and 6). Additionally, a knee pin 85 connectsthe opposing angled side members 83. The angled side members 83 and kneefabric panel 84 are configured to outwardly extend (i.e. concavely) fromthe seat side member 60 to support the user's knees when the user sitswithin the seat 24.

Leg hinges 86 of the plurality of hinges 10 secure the leg assembly 22to the seat assembly 20. In particular, each leg hinge 86 pivotallycouples the leg assembly 22 to the first seat ends 64 of the seatassembly 20. In one embodiment, each leg hinge 86 includes joints (notshown) that may be secured at a plurality of angular positions withrespect to the ground surface. The leg assembly 22 has a leg frame 88that includes opposing leg side members 90. Each leg side member has afirst leg end 92 and a second leg end 94. In one embodiment, leg sidemembers 90 are approximately 18″ in length and approximately 1½″ inheight. Further, the leg frame 88 includes a stabilizing bar SB thatconnects the opposing leg side members 90. The leg assembly 22 alsocomprises a leg covering 96 (FIG. 6) that partially covers the leg frame88. The leg covering 96 extends across to contact the opposing leg sidemembers 90. The leg covering 96 may comprise any suitable material suchas a nylon or canvas material.

The collapsible seat 24 removably connects to the seat assembly 20. Thecollapsible seat has a proximal end 98, a distal end 100 and a body 102positioned between the proximal end 98 and the distal end 100. Theproximal end 98 is positioned near the back assembly 18 while the distalend 100 is positioned near the leg assembly 22. The body 102 of the seat24 comprises a body fabric panel, which may include any suitablematerial such as a nylon or canvas material. The proximal end 98connects with or integrates with an adjustment pin 104 while the distalend 100 connects with or integrates with a seat attachment 106. Theadjustment pin 104 removably engages with at least one of the pluralityof seat adjustment positions 72 of the seat track 70. The seatattachment 106 connects with the knee pin 85 of the knee portion 82 suchthat the engaged adjustment pin 104 with the seat track 70 and theattached distal end 100 with the knee pin 85 positions the body 102 ofthe seat 24 in a substantially horizontal position with respect to theangled surface 16. As such, the body 102 of the seat 24 suspends betweenthe seat track 70 at the proximal end 98 and the knee pin at the distalend 100.

As shown in FIG. 1, the seat attachment 106 connects with the knee pin85 to position the distal end 100 of the seat 24 at the lower ends ofthe angled side members 83 of the knee portion 82. The seat attachment106 may be integrally formed with the knee pin 85. For example, the seatattachment 106 may comprise stitching or riveting which connects thedistal end 100 of the seat 24 to the knee pin 85. Alternatively, theseat attachment 106 may connect to the knee pin 85 by a removablefastener such as a hook and loop fastener, i.e., Velcro.

The adjustment pin 104 comprises a square or rectangular bar member(FIG. 2), wherein the proximal end 98 of the seat 24 crimps inside theadjustment pin 104. In this configuration, the adjustment pin 104 can berolled in two directions to shorten the seat 24 or to extend the seat24. This allows the user to control the tension of the body 102 for amultitude of different seat positions. In one embodiment, the proximalend 98 connects to a bar (not shown) positioned within the adjustmentpin 104. The adjustment pin 104 is further sized and shaped to match thechannel member 76 of the seat track 70. As such, the proximal end 98 ofthe seat 24 is spaced from the ends of the adjustment pin 104 such thatwhen the adjustment pin 104 is positioned in any one of the channelmembers 76 of the seat track 70, the distal end 100 and body 102 of theseat 24 are free to pass between the opposing back side members 36. Assuch, the seat 24 does not contact the back side members 36.

Since the channel members 76 of the seat track 70 are positioned withinthe back side members 36, the adjustment pin 104 is also positionedbehind the front face 46 of the back covering 34 when the adjustment pin104 is placed in any of the channel members 76 of the seat track. Assuch, the user does not directly contact the adjustment pin 104 whenseated within the body 102 of the seat 24. Since the proximal end 98 ofthe seat 24 is crimped within the adjustment pin 104 and the adjustmentpin 104 may engage with any of the plurality of seat adjustmentpositions 72, the user can conveniently suspend the body 102 of the seat24 between the proximal end 98 and distal end 100.

Turning to FIG. 3, the arm assembly 26 has a first arm 108, a second arm110, arm connection pins 112, a first arm track 114 and a second armtrack 116. Each arm 108, 110 has an engagement pin 115 positioned at theproximal end, i.e., near the back assembly 18. At least one of the arms108, 110 includes at least one of a cup holder or beverage holder. Thecup/beverage holder may be positioned at a plurality of locations alongthe arms 108, 110. For illustrative purposes, FIGS. 1 and 3 illustratethe cup/beverage holder near the middle of each arm 108, 110 while FIG.6 illustrates the cup/beverage holder near the end of each arm 108, 110.The arm track 114 is integrally formed within the back side members 36at a position below the seat track 70 of the seat adjustment assembly 58(FIG. 1). The arm track 114 of one of the back side members 36 containsa mirror configuration of the arm track 114 for the other respectiveback side member 36. Since the arm track 114 is integrally disposedwithin the back side members 36, the arm track 114 does not extendbeyond the back frame 32. The arm track 114 has a plurality of armadjustment positions 118.

Each arm adjustment position 118 includes a slot 120 having a channelmember 122 and a support member 124 that perpendicularly extends aboveeach channel member 122. Each channel member 122 is configured in acircular shape. As shown, the plurality of arm adjustment positions 118is positioned on top of each other while being equally spaced from eachother. Furthermore, angled portions of the arm track 114 connect onerespective channel member 122 with the next channel member 122.

The arm track 116 is integrally formed within the arms 108, 110 at aposition near the first seat ends 64. The arm track 116 of one of thearms 108, 110 contains a mirror configuration of the arm track 116 forthe other respective arm 108, 110. The arm track 116 has a plurality ofarm adjustment positions 117.

Each arm adjustment position 117 includes a slot 119 having a channelmember 121. Each channel member 121 is configured in a circular shape.As shown, the plurality of arm adjustment positions 117 is positionedadjacent to each other while being equally spaced from each other.

The engagement pins 115 of the first arm 108 and the second arm 110removably engage with at least one of the plurality of arm adjustmentpositions of the arm track 114. The first arm 108 and the second arm 110also removably engage with the arm connection pins 112 via the channelmembers 121 of the second arm track 116. The connection of theengagement pins 115 of first arm 108 and the second arm 110 with one ofthe arm adjustment positions 118 along with the engagement of thechannel members 121 and connections pins 112 of the second arm track 116positions the first arm 108 and the second arm 110 in a substantiallyhorizontal position with respect to the angled surface 16. As such, therespective arms 108, 110 positions the cup/beverage holder horizontallyalso. The channel members 121 releasably lock to the arm connection pins112 when the channel members 121 engage the arm connection pins 112.Since the connection pins 112 extend outward from the seat side members60, the engagement pins 115 connect the arms 108, 110 to the outsidesurfaces of the back side members 36.

Returning to FIG. 1, foot hinges 126 of the plurality of hinges 10secures the foot assembly 28 to the leg assembly 22. In particular, eachfoot hinge 126 pivotally couples the foot assembly 28 to the second legends 94 of the leg frame 88. In one embodiment, the foot hinge 126includes joints (not shown) that may be secured at a plurality ofangular positions with respect to the ground surface. Furthermore, theleg assembly 22 includes a crossbar B that connects the foot sidemembers 130 at the opposing foot hinges 126. The foot assembly 28 has afoot frame 128 that includes opposing foot side members 130 wherein eachfoot side member has a first foot end 132 and a second foot end 134. Inone embodiment, the foot side members 130 are approximately 8″ in lengthand approximately 1½″ in height. The foot assembly 28 further comprisesa foot fabric panel 136 that contacts each foot side member 130 andextends between each foot side member 130. The foot fabric panel 136(FIG. 6) may comprise any suitable material such as a nylon or canvasmaterial. The foot fabric panel 136 has a first fabric portion 138 (FIG.6) and a second fabric portion 140 (FIG. 6) wherein the first fabricportion 138 and the second fabric portion 140 are positionedperpendicular with respect to each other while being positioned betweenthe foot side members 130.

As shown in FIG. 3, the anchors 30 removably attach to both second backends 40 and both second leg ends 94. Each anchor has a flat end 142which connects with the respective second end and has a pointed oppositeend 144 in order to penetrate the angled surface 16. The anchors 30 mayalso removably attach to both of the second seat ends 66 (not shown) andthe second foot ends 134 (not shown). In one embodiment, the anchor 30may be fixed to either of the respective second back ends 40, secondseat ends 66, second leg ends 94 and the second foot ends 134.Furthermore, stops 146 pivotally couple to the foot hinge 126 and theseat hinge 54. The stops 146 rotatably connect to hinges 54, 126 by aconnection means, such as a pin. The hinge stops 146 rotate, via thefoot hinge 126 and the seat hinge 54, to contact the angled surface 16to provide more stabilizing support. As such, the stops 146 rotate to anangle from the respective hinges 54, 126 to match the angled surface 16to further support the chair A on the angled surface 16.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 3 each of the second back ends 40, secondseat ends 66, second leg ends 94 and second foot ends 134 contact theangled surface 16. The seat assembly 20 is rotatable around the seathinge 54 at a plurality of angles with respect to the angled surface 16.Furthermore, the leg assembly 22 is rotatable around the leg hinge 86 ata plurality of leg angles with respect to the angled surface 16. Theback assembly 18 is also rotatable around the seat hinge 54 at aplurality of angles with respect to the angled surface 16. The footassembly 28 is rotatable around the foot hinge 126 at a plurality ofangles with respect to the angled surface 16. Since the seat assembly20, leg assembly 22, back assembly 18 are rotatable at the plurality ofangles with respect to the angled surface 16, the chair A may berotatably positioned on the angled surface 16 in order to position thebody 102 of the seat 24 and the arms 108, 110 in a substantiallyhorizontal position with respect to the angled surface 16.

Turning to FIG. 4 and referring to FIGS. 1-3, the chair A is configuredto fold between the collapsed position 14 and the expanded position 12.In the collapsed position 14, the foot assembly 28 folds along the foothinge 126 toward the leg assembly 22 such that the foot side members 130fold inside the leg side members 90 of the leg assembly 22. Since thefoot assembly 28 is rotatable around the foot hinge 126, at a pluralityof angles, the first foot ends 132 rotate upward and toward the firstleg ends 92. Since the foot side members 130 are shorter in size thanthe leg side members 90, the foot assembly 28 easily fits within theseat assembly 20. Once the foot assembly 28 has rotated into the legassembly 22, the leg assembly 22 rotates around the leg hinge 86 andfolds inside the seat assembly 20. Since the leg assembly 22 isrotatable around the leg hinge 86 at a plurality of angles, the secondleg ends 94 rotate upward and toward the second seat ends 66 in order tofold within the seat side members 60. Since the leg side members 90 aresmaller in size than the seat side members 60, the leg assembly 22easily fits within the seat assembly 20.

Additionally, the seat assembly 20 rotates within the back assembly 18.Since the seat assembly 20 rotates around the seat hinge 54 at theplurality of angles, the first seat ends 64 rotate toward the first backends 38 of the back frame 32. Since the seat side members 60 are shorterin length than the back side members 36, the seat assembly 20 easilyfits within the back assembly 18. As such, the foot assembly 28, legassembly 22, seat assembly 20 and back assembly 18 are aligned andfolded to provide a convenient and collapsible carrying position for theuser. Furthermore, the back side members 36 are longer than the seatside members 60 to extend the handle aperture 52 of the back covering 34beyond the folded foot assembly 28, leg assembly 22, and seat assembly20 to provide a convenient access for the user to carry the chair A inthe collapsed position 14.

Turning to FIGS. 5A-5C and referring to FIGS. 1-4, during use, theperson unfolds the chair A from the collapsed position 14 to theexpanded position 12 and positions the chair A on the surface, which maybe angled with respect to the horizon. The user conveniently carries thechair A via the handle aperture 52 and places the chair on the angledsurface 16 in the collapsed position 14. The user then unfolds the seatassembly 20 from the back assembly 18 by moving the seat assembly 20along the seat hinge 54. The user anchors the back assembly 18 into theangled surface 16, i.e., the ground by stepping on either of thecrossbars B in order to drive the anchors 30 into the angled surface 16.The user levels the first arm 108 and second arm 110 and locks the firstarm 108 and the second arm 110 with the first arm track 114 and thesecond arm track 116.

While unfolding the seat assembly 20, the user engages the adjustmentpin 104 of the collapsible seat 24 with at least one of the plurality ofseat adjustment positions 72 of the seat track 70. The user, meanwhile,engages the engagement pins 115 of the first arm 108 and the second arm110 with a one of the plurality of arm positions 118 of the first armtrack 114 and engages the connection pins 112 with one of the pluralityof arm positions 117 of the second seat track 116. The arms 108, 110 arestrong enough to connect and to support the back assembly 18 and theseat assembly 20. In other words, the arms 108, 110 lock the frames ofthe back assembly 18 and seat assembly 20 into place. Additionally, theuser can rotate the adjustment pin 104 to obtain the desired tension ofthe seat 24. In positioning the adjustment pin 104 in the desired seatadjustment position, the user can position the body 102 of the seatsubstantially horizontal in the extended position while the chair A ispositioned on the angled surface 16.

The user then rotates the leg assembly 22 from inside the seat assembly20 by rotating the leg assembly 22 around the leg hinge. The user thenunfolds the foot assembly 28 via the foot hinge 126 from inside the legassembly 22 to a desired angled position and locks the foot assembly 28in that desired position via the foot hinge 126. In rotating the leghinge 86 in the plurality of angles, the user moves the second leg endsin contact with the angled surface 16. In moving the seat assembly 20through the plurality of angles via the seat hinge 54, the second seatends 66 contact the angled surface 16. Depending upon the angle of thesurface, the user can easily adjust the angle of the foot assembly 28,leg assembly 22, seat assembly 20 and back assembly 18 through therespective hinges to accommodate the desired position of the footassembly 28, leg assembly 22, seat assembly 20 and back assembly 18.

Turning to FIG. 5A, on a substantially flat surface, the user positionsthe adjustment pin 104 in the lower most channel member 76 of the seattrack 70 to provide the substantially horizontal position. As thesurface angles, however, the user conveniently moves the adjustment pin104 to the appropriate channel member 76 of the seat track 70 tomaintain the body 102 of the collapsible seat in the substantiallyhorizontal position. The user also conveniently moves the engagementpins 115 along the slot 120 to the opposite channel 122 and moves theconnection pins 112 along the slot 119 to the appropriate channel 121 tomaintain the arms 108, 110 in the substantially horizontal position. Forexample, in FIG. 5B, the surface angles at approximately 45 degrees. Theuser conveniently moves the adjustment pin 104 to the appropriatechannel member 76 of the seat track 70 to maintain the body 102 of thecollapsible seat in the substantially horizontal position. The user alsoconveniently moves the engagement pins 115 along the slot 120 to theopposite channel 122 and moves the connection pins 112 along the slot119 to the appropriate channel 121 to maintain the arms 108, 110 in thesubstantially horizontal position. Still further, in FIG. 5C, thesurface angles at approximately 60 degrees. The user conveniently movesthe adjustment pin 104 to the appropriate channel member 76 of the seattrack 70 to maintain the body 102 of the collapsible seat in thesubstantially horizontal position. The user also conveniently moves theengagement pins 115 along the slot 120 to the opposite channel 122 andmoves the connection pins 112 along the slot 119 to the appropriatechannel 121 to maintain the arms 108, 110 in the substantiallyhorizontal position.

As such, the user can engage the first arm 108 and the second arm 110into with at least one of the plurality of arm adjustment positions 118,117 of the arm track 114, 116 to maintain the first arm 108 and secondarm 110 in the substantially horizontal position with respect to any ofthe angled surfaces 16. To engage the appropriate arm adjustmentposition 117, the user pulls or “pops” the arms 108, 110 away from theconnection pins 112, moves the connection pins 112 within the slots 119and pushes the arms 108, 110 back toward the connection pins 112 toconnect the connection, pins 112 into the appropriate channels 121.Furthermore, the user may stabilize the chair A to the angled surface 16by penetrating the anchors into the surface. In this expanded position12, the seat adjustment pin 104 is positioned in its desired channelmember 76 of the seat track 70 wherein in this position the seatadjustment pin 104 is positioned behind the front face 46 of the backcovering 34. As such, when the person sits in the body 102 of the seat,the person does not directly contact the adjustment pin 104, butinstead, contacts the back covering 34. Furthermore, the user adjuststhe tension of the collapsible seat by rotating the adjustment pin 104,which, in turn, wraps the crimped end of the seat around the adjustmentpin 104.

Turning to FIG. 7-9, the present disclosure also relates to aretractable canopy, generally shown as 148, that reciprocates in and outof chair A. In this embodiment, the canopy 148 reciprocates out of theback assembly 150 of the chair A (FIG. 7). The back assembly 150 has aback frame 152 that includes opposing backside members 154 wherein achannel 156 is disposed through the backside members 154 (FIGS. 7 and9). As shown in FIG. 9, the backside members 154 form a U-shape assemblysuch that the channel 156 communicates with respective openings 158 ofeach backside member 154. Preferably, the interior of the channel 156 issmooth. The channel 156, however, may include elements of the backassembly 150 such as fasteners or rivets associated with components ofthe back assembly 150.

The canopy 148 comprises a pair of flexible members 160, a panel 162, apair of bias members 164 and a cross member 166. Each of the flexiblemembers 160 has a first end 168, a second end 170 and a body 172disposed there between (FIG. 9). The flexible members 160 are configuredto reciprocate between a retracted position, generally shown as 174,that is within the channel 156 (FIG. 7) and an expanded position,generally shown as 176, that is out of the channel 156 and over thechair A (FIG. 8). In one embodiment, the flexible members 160 compriseunitary rods that are bendable during use. These rods may comprise agraphite or nylon material. In another embodiment (not shown), theflexible members comprise segmented, bendable rods that are connected toeach other by an internal high-strength line. When the user pulls thesegmented, bendable rods out of the chair A, the user connects thesegmented bendable rods to each other via fastening means. Stillfurther, in another embodiment (not shown), the flexible memberscomprise telescoping, bendable rods that extend/retract within adjacentrods. Additionally, in another embodiment (not shown), the flexiblemembers comprises tightly wound springs or a spring cable.

Regardless of the configuration of the flexible members 160, theflexible members 160 are configured to position within the channel 156in the retracted position 174 as shown in FIGS. 7 and 9. In theretracted position 174, the flexible members 160 are flexible enough tomove around the bends of the channel 156 and any associated componentswithin the channel 156 such as fasteners or rivets. In the expandedposition 176, the flexible members 160 are positioned over the chair A.The first ends 168 of the flexible members 160 include a stop 178 thatremains in the channel 156 when the flexible members 160 are exposed inthe expanded position 176. The stop 178 anchors the first end 168 tomaintain the flexible members 160 connected to the channel 156 when theflexible members 160 are positioned in the expanded position 176. Inother words, the stop 178 engages the opening 158 in the expandedposition 176. FIG. 9 illustrates the stop 178 in reduced form forclarity.

Referring to FIG. 8, the panel 162 removably attaches to the flexiblemembers 160 when the flexible members 160 are positioned in the expandedposition 176. In one embodiment, the panel 162 comprises a lightweightwaterproof material such as but not limited to nylon. The panel 162 maybe the same color as the chair A for aesthetic purposes. Additionally,the panel 162 may be a camouflage color for hunting, fishing and otheroutdoor purposes. Side portions of the panel 162 may include windowsand/or mesh screens for viewing purposes. Still further, the panel 162may include an overlapping curtain in front of the chair A to allowentry and exit of the chair A. During nonuse of the chair A, a zipperedbag 180 contains the panel 162. As shown in FIG. 7, the zippered bag 180attaches to the back of the chair A for convenient and unobtrusivestorage of the panel 162.

Returning to FIG. 8, a plurality of removable fasteners 182 fastens thepanel 162 to the flexible members 160. The removable fasteners 182 mayinclude but are not limited to clips or hook and loop fasteners.Alternatively, the removable fasteners 182 may include eyelets attachedto the panel 162 wherein the eyelets are sized and shaped to accept theflexible members 160.

Prior to or subsequently after engaging the panel 162 to the flexiblemembers 160, at least one stabilizing rod 184 removably connects witheach flexible member 160 when the flexible members 160 are in theexpanded position 176. The stabilizing rod 184 may adjust in the middleto support the flexible members 160 and to keep the flexible members 160parallel to each other in the expanded position 176. Multiplestabilizing rods 184 may be positioned between the lengths of theflexible members 160 to provide uniform spacing and support of theflexible members 160.

As shown in FIG. 9, the stabilizing rod 184 has ends with aperturesdefined therethrough. The flexible members 160 extend through theseapertures such that the stabilizing rod slides along the flexiblemembers 160 as the flexible members 160 are pulled out of the channel156. A plurality of stabilizing rods 184 may slide along the flexiblemembers 160. In one embodiment, the cross member 166 includes a cavity(not shown) which stores the stabilizing rod 184 when the cross member166 removeably connects with the back assembly 150 in the retractedposition 174. Accordingly, the second ends 170 of the flexible members160 extend through the apertures of the stabilizing rod 184 and connectwith the cross member 166. In one embodiment, the cavity is sized andshaped to store the plurality of stabilizing rods 184.

Each bias member 164 has an upper end 183 and a lower end 185. The upperends 183 are connected near the second ends 170 of the flexible members160 and the lower ends 185 are connected near the chair A. In oneembodiment, the bias members 164 comprise cords such as nylon cords. Inanother embodiment, the bias members 164 comprise the flexible rods. Thebias members 164 pull the second ends 170 of the flexible members 160toward the chair A to bend the flexible members 160 in an arc shape 188over the chair A so that the flexible members 160 cover the chair A.

Since the flexible members 160 are bendable and the stabilizing rod 184supports the flexible members 160, the arc 188 formed by the flexiblemembers 160 is adjustable in size. The size of the adjustable arc 188depends on the amount of tension the bias members 164 apply to thesecond ends 170 of the flexible members 160. Accordingly, the biasmembers 164 may size the arc 188 of the flexible members 160 such thatthe second ends 170 of the flexible members 160 position the top of thepanel 162 at a height to allow the user to stand in a full uprightposition in front of the chair A. The bias members 164 may also size thearc 188 such that the second ends 170 of the flexible member positionthe top of the panel 162 at a height just above the user's head. Assuch, this size of the arc 188 and height of the panel 162 minimize anyblockage of view from behind the chair A.

To assist in pulling the flexible members 160 out of the back assembly150 and into the expanded position 176, the cross member 166 attacheswith each second end 170 of each flexible member 160 (FIG. 9).Additionally, as shown in FIG. 7, the cross member 166 removablyattaches to the back assembly 150 of the chair A when the flexiblemembers 160 are positioned in the retracted position 174. As shown inFIG. 8, the upper ends 183 of the bias members 164 removably connect tothe cross member 166 when the flexible members 160 are positioned in theexpanded position 176. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the canopy furthercomprises a retractable assembly 186 (FIGS. 7 and 8) that connects toeach lower end 185 of the bias members 164. The retractable assembly 186has a coiled rewind member that rewinds the bias members 164 when thebias members 164 disconnect from the cross member 166.

As shown in FIGS. 7-9, the canopy 148 of the present disclosureintegrates with chair A that folds by a plurality of hinges between thechair's sitting position and the chair's collapsed position to seat aperson substantially horizontal while the chair A is positioned on theangled surface as previously discussed. The canopy 148 provideslightweight and easy to assemble components. Additionally, the flexiblemembers 160 remain inside the channel 156 during nonuse while thezippered bag 180 stores the panel 162, plurality of fasteners 182 andstabilizing rod 184 during nonuse.

During use, the user sets the chair A in the desired position. The userthen grasps the cross member 166 and pulls the cross member 166 outwardto pull the flexible members 160 out of the channel 156 and to positionthe flexible members 160 over the chair A. With the flexible members 160positioned over the chair A, the user slides the stabilizing rod 184along the flexible members 160 to support and uniformly space theflexible members 160. The user then grasps the upper ends 183 of thebias members 164 and pulls the bias members 164 out of the retractableassembly 186. The user connects the upper ends 183 to the cross member166 wherein tension of the bias members 164 bends the flexible members160 in the arc shape 188 over the chair A. The user then retrieves thepanel 162 out of the storage bag 180 and fastens the panel 162 to theflexible members 160 via the fasteners 182.

The panel 162 may extend down to the seat as shown in FIG. 8.Additionally, the panel 162 may extend past the seat and touch theground. Alternatively, the panel 162 may include an insect mesh portionthat connects to the bottom of the panel 162 to protect the areaunderneath and around the seat. Furthermore, the panel 162 may includeportions that overlap the leg assembly 190 and feet assembly 192 of thechair A to protect these portions of the chair A.

Turning to FIGS. 10 and 11, another embodiment of the canopy 194 isshown integrated with chair B. As shown, chair B is a folding chairhaving a back assembly 196 and a seat assembly 198. The back assembly196 includes a back frame 200 having opposing backside members 154 andchannel 156 disposed through the opposing backside members. A seat 202of the seat assembly 198 pivotally couples to the back assembly 196. Asshown, the canopy 194 reciprocates in and out of the channel 156 of theopposing backside members 154. The canopy 194 comprises the flexiblemembers 160, the panel 162, the pair of bias members 164, stabilizingrod 184 and cross member 166 as previously discussed. As shown in FIG.10, the flexible members 160 are positioned within the channel in theretracted position. The flexible members 160 are then extended in theexpanded position and the panel 162 is attached as shown in FIG. 11.

In view of the above, it will be seen that the several objects of thedisclosure are achieved and other advantageous results are obtained. Asvarious changes could be made in the above constructions withoutdeparting from the scope of the disclosure, it is intended that allmatter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanyingdrawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limitingsense.

1. A canopy that reciprocates in and out of a channel of a back assemblyfor a chair, the canopy comprising: a pair of flexible members, eachflexible member having a first rod end, a second rod end and a rod bodydisposed therebetween, the flexible members being configured toreciprocate between a retracted position that is within the channel ofthe back assembly and an expanded position that is out of the channeland over the chair; a weatherproof panel that removeably attaches to theflexible members when the flexible members are positioned in theexpanded position; and a pair of bias members, each bias member havingan upper end and a lower end, the upper ends being connected near thesecond ends of the flexible members and the lower ends being connectedto the chair wherein the bias members pull the second ends of theflexible members toward the chair to bend the flexible members in an arcshape over the chair so that the weatherproof panel covers the chair. 2.The canopy of claim 1 further comprising a plurality of removeablefasteners that fasten the panel to the flexible members.
 3. The canopyof claim 1 further comprising a stabilizing rod that removeably connectswith each flexible member.
 4. The canopy of claim 1 further comprising across member that attaches to each second end of the flexible members.5. The canopy of claim 4 wherein the cross member removeably attaches tothe back assembly of the chair when the flexible members are positionedin the retracted position.
 6. The canopy of claim 4 wherein the upperends of the bias members removeably connect to the cross member.
 7. Thecanopy of claim 6 further comprising a retractable assembly connected toeach lower end of the bias members, the retractable assembly having acoiled rewind member that rewinds the bias members when the bias membersdisconnect from the cross members.
 8. The canopy of claim 1 wherein thefirst ends of the flexible members include a stop that remains in thechannel when the flexible members are positioned in the expandedposition such that the stop anchors the first ends within the channel tomaintain the flexible members connected to the channel when the flexiblemembers are positioned in the expanded position.
 9. The canopy of claim1 wherein the flexible members comprise a graphite material.
 10. Thecanopy of claim 1 wherein the panel includes a window.
 11. A foldablechair, comprising: a back assembly having a back frame, the back frameincluding opposing back side members and channel disposed through theopposing back side members; a seat assembly pivotally coupled to theback assembly, the seat assembly having a seat; and a canopy thatreciprocates in and out of the channel of the opposing back sidemembers, the canopy comprising a pair of flexible members, each flexiblemember having a first rod end, a second rod end and a rod body disposedtherebetween, the flexible members being configured to reciprocatebetween a retracted position that is within the channel of the backassembly and an expanded position that is out of the channel and overthe chair; a weatherproof panel that removeably attaches to the flexiblemembers when the flexible members are positioned in the expandedposition; and a pair of bias members, each bias member having an upperend and a lower end, the upper ends being connected near the second endsof the flexible members and the lower ends being connected to the chairwherein the bias members pull the second ends of the flexible memberstoward the chair to bend the flexible members in an arc shape over thechair so that the weatherproof panel covers the chair.
 12. The canopy ofclaim 11 further comprising a plurality of removeable fasteners thatfasten the panel to the flexible members.
 13. The canopy of claim 11further comprising a stabilizing rod that removeably connect with eachflexible member.
 14. The canopy of claim 11 further comprising a crossmember that attaches to each second end of the flexible members.
 15. Thecanopy of claim 14 wherein the cross member removeably attaches to theback assembly of the chair when the flexible members are positioned inthe retracted position.
 16. The canopy of claim 11 wherein the upperends of the bias members removeably connect to the cross member.
 17. Thecanopy of claim 16 further comprising a retractable assembly connectedto each lower end of the bias line, the retractable assembly having acoiled rewind member that rewinds the bias members when the bias membersdisconnect from the cross members.
 18. A foldable chair that folds by aplurality of hinges between an expanded position and a collapsedposition to seat a person substantially horizontal while the chair ispositioned on an angled surface, comprising: a back assembly having aback frame, the back frame including opposing back side members and achannel disposed through the opposing back side members; a seat assemblysecured to a seat hinge of the plurality of hinges, the seat hingepivotally coupling the seat assembly to the back assembly, the seatassembly having a seat frame and a seat adjustment assembly, the seatframe including opposing seat side members, each seat side member havinga first seat end and a second seat end, the seat adjustment assemblyincluding a seat track which is integrally disposed within the back sidemembers, the seat track having at least one seat adjustment position; acollapsible seat which is removeably coupled to the seat assembly, thecollapsible seat having a proximal end, a distal end, a body positionedbetween the proximal end and the distal end, an adjustment pin and aseat attachment, the proximal end connecting with the adjustment pin,the distal end connecting with the seat attachment wherein theadjustment pin removeably engages with at least one of the plurality ofseat adjustment positions of the seat track and the seat attachmentconnects with the seat frame such that the engaged adjustment pin withthe seat track and the attached distal end with the seat frame positionsthe body of the seat in a substantially horizontal position with respectto the angled surface; a canopy that reciprocates in and out of thechannel of the opposing back side members, the canopy comprising a pairof flexible members, each flexible member having a first rod end, asecond rod end and a rod body disposed therebetween, the flexiblemembers being configured to reciprocate between a retracted positionthat is within the channel of the back assembly and an expanded positionthat is out of the channel and over the chair; a weatherproof panel thatremoveably attaches to the flexible members when the flexible membersare positioned in the expanded position; and a pair of bias members,each bias member having an upper end and a lower end, the upper endsbeing connected near the second ends of the flexible members and thelower ends being connected to the chair wherein the bias members pullthe second ends of the flexible members toward the chair to bend theflexible members in an arc shape over the chair so that the weatherproofpanel covers the chair.
 19. The foldable chair of claim 18 furthercomprising a stabilizing rod that removeably connects to each flexiblemember when the flexible members are positioned in the expandedposition.
 20. The canopy of claim 18 further comprising a cross memberthat attaches to each second end of the flexible members.